My teaching experience encompasses 20 years and has largely been in the field of English as a Second Language (ESL). For this website-portfolio, I have chosen to focus on my work with the English Language Program at the University of Winnipeg where I was an instructor for 5 years (1999-2004); at Crown Language Institute, Toronto, Ontario, where I was instructor and curriculum developer for two years (2006-2008); and with the Faculty of Liberal Studies at the Ontario College of Art & Design, where I have worked since September 2006. Through these programs I have discovered that students appreciate learning in an interactive environment. Such an approach to learning is possible and effective because interactivity:

• facilitates discussion that enhances listening and speaking skills
• expedites vocabulary acquisition
• facilitates inclusion and open-mindedness
• fosters collaboration and care

The documents included here supplement class lectures and discussion and focus on individual effort. Constructive criticism, conducted not only by teachers of students but by students of other students, cultivates a more equitable environment. A focus on the individual considers:

• a student's cultural and linguistic backgrounds
• individual learning style
• a student's ability to self-manage, self-motivate, and self-correct
• the potential presence of undiagnosed learning disabilities
• other factors, such as gender and sexual orientation, which potentially result in marginalisation and exclusion

It is important to note, however, that an emphasis on the individual does not preclude the collective experience. Indeed, my desire is to have students learn in a collaborative environment. Self-directed learning and collaborative learning need not be mutually exclusive; when combined they can lead to an uplifting learning experience for all.



To view these documents, click on the various links to the right.